Classic Picture Books

—Holly Hartman

A six-year-old who crashes parties at New York's posh Plaza Hotel. A talking dog and her astonished family. Verse about evil weevils and gymnastically gifted spiders. Is this the stuff of literature that captivates readers across the generations? Why yes. Although these books may start out on the children's shelves of libraries and bookstores, they are enjoyed by readers of all ages who appreciate witty stories and original art.

Click Clack Moo by Doreen Cronin and Betsy LewinThings are never the same after Farmer Brown's cows get their hooves on an old typewriter—and start to send him demanding memos.

D'Aulaire's Greek Myths by Ingri and Edgar Parin D'AulaireThis classic work pairs dramatic and often funny tales of love, magic, greed, and trickery with unforgettable illustrations.

Eloise by Kay Thompson and Hilary KnightEloise lives in the Plaza Hotel, where she pours water down the mail chute, "sklathes" along the halls, and scams treats by pretending she is an orphan.

I, Crocodile by Fred MarcellinoNapoleon's pet crocodile enjoys being "The Darling of the Empire" until the emperor's craving for crocodile pie threatens his reptile paradise.

Insectlopedia by Douglas FlorianShort poems about insects and spiders are accompanied by fascinating images of collage and paint on paper bags.

Martha Calling by Susan MeddaughWhen Martha Dog eats alphabet soup, the letters go to her brain instead of her stomach, giving her the gift of speech.

Polkabats and Octopus Slacks by Calef BrownNonsense poems and colorful paintings pay tribute to such unlikely subjects as "Kansas City Octopus" and "Funky Snowman."

The Shrinking of Treehorn by Florence Parry Heide and Edward GoreyTreehorn grows smaller each day, but his plight is ignored by all; "Nobody shrinks," says his father, while his teachers scold him for being unruly.